Forum urges media to back Armed Forces, says CDS steering troops through security hurdles

The Peace, Security and Development Forum has appealed to media professionals to support the Armed Forces of Nigeria by avoiding reports that give undue prominence to the activities of non-state actors working to destabilize the nation.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, the forum’s secretary, Samuel Afolabi, commended the efforts of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, noting that he is effectively guiding the military towards overcoming the country’s current security challenges.

Afolabi, who presented the text of the briefing titled “INSECURITY: ROLE OF MEDIA, CSO’s, GENERAL SOCIETY,” reminded Nigerians of the gravity of the situation. “It is no longer news that the enemies we all detest are at our doorstep. We are here to encourage and cheer ourselves up. No matter what we are facing now, this organisation is very hopeful that soon we will overcome,” he said.

While stressing that the group was not attempting to make excuses for the security situation, the forum observed that non-state actors across the world are aggressively advancing and spreading fear among populations.

“They are out to cripple socio-economic development. Unfortunately, our beloved country is facing its own portion at a time when our economy is in the recovery process.

“Our Armed Forces, under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, are not giving up, according to our assessment. They have intensified clearance operations where the enemies are hiding. This is not the time to apportion blame.

“Our troops are making sacrifices across the country to restore peace.

“We, in the Peace, Security and Development Forum, believe that the sacrifices of our troops cannot be overstated. We have lost brothers and fathers who were fighting to protect our country. Our prayer is that their sacrifice will not be in vain,” the group said.

The forum further urged Nigerians to continue praying for the CDS and his men as they work to navigate the nation out of its current challenges.

“We know the antecedent of the CDS during his time as the Chief of Army Staff; we believe he will do it again.

“This body specifically speaks to media practitioners. This is the time to join hands with our troops to defend our country. This is not the time for sensational news and headlines that embolden our collective enemies. Our media houses have a big role in this war.

“We must not bring down the morale of our troops; instead, we must support and acknowledge their sacrifices.

“We also urge CSOs and NGOs to use their organisations to agitate for peace through their grassroots networks.

“To the general public, we will not give in to the expectations of our collective enemies. These enemies want us to live in fear; they want to destroy our economy and ultimately destroy our nation.

“We must not surrender to them. Already, our economy is going through a recovery process, and we all stand to lose if the enemies override us. We must stand up in unity against them. We know our troops are able to do this task.

“We use this opportunity to commend the Chief of Defence Staff and his troops. It is not an easy time, but with the will of the people and God on our side, we will conquer. We urge us to stand with our Armed Forces and our beloved country at this crucial time,” it added.